Flying with cannabis? TSA’s new guidance comes with a major health warning
When this elevated cardiac strain combines with the nervous system’s natural response to altitude — which, according to University of Florida research, already forces the heart to beat faster to distribute lower levels of oxygen — it can trigger acute cardiovascular distress.
MORE SENIORS ARE USING CANNABIS THAN EVER BEFORE DESPITE HEALTH RISKS, RESEARCH SHOWS
Rather than relieving travel anxiety, using unpredictable or high-potency doses at high altitudes can worsen symptoms like severe nausea, dizziness and hyperventilation, research shows.
Previous data shows cannabis can alter heart rhythm and oxygen demand, which may not be ideal with cabin altitude. (iStock)
“The overall goal should be continuity of care during travel, not medicating at 35,000 feet,” Mejia said.
For a growing number of patients, cannabis is no longer just an alternative therapy, but functions as a primary form of medicine. In these cases, before traveling with the substance, preparation is everything, experts say.
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“The safest cannabis travel plan is understanding the laws before you pack,” Mejia advised, warning travelers not to misinterpret the updated language.
Using unpredictable or high-potency doses at high altitudes can backfire, leading to severe nausea, dizziness and hyperventilation rather than relieving travel anxiety, experts caution. (iStock)
“A TSA checkpoint is not a legal shield from state or local enforcement,” the expert noted. “The TSA checks for security threats, not cannabis. That doesn’t mean cannabis can’t become your problem.”
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“If your cannabis looks legitimate, labeled and professionally packaged, you’re less likely to raise questions.”
“If your cannabis looks legitimate, labeled and professionally packaged, you’re less likely to raise questions than if you’re carrying a bag of mystery gummies and a handful of loose flower,” Mejia added.
“The TSA checks for security threats, not cannabis. That doesn’t mean cannabis can’t become your problem.” (iStock)
If an item raises eyebrows, the agent has the authority to refer the matter to law enforcement.
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While domestic travel has entered a gray area, international travel remains a different set of rules altogether. Crossing international borders with cannabis carries severe risks, regardless of the laws of the country you are visiting, experts say.
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“If you’re traveling internationally, leave your cannabis at home,” Mejia advised. “Even in countries that have legalized cannabis, the rules for visitors can be very different from the rules for residents.”
Khloe Quill is a lifestyle production assistant with Fox News Digital. She and the lifestyle team cover a range of story topics including food and drink, travel, and health.
Article source: https://www.foxnews.com/health/flying-cannabis-tsas-new-guidance-comes-major-health-warning